Installation of taps on radiators

Comfort in a room depends on the heating system. No matter what material they are made of batteriesinstalled in your home. In any case, the system must be periodically rinse, bleed or repair in case of malfunctions. To simplify this task will help the installation of taps on radiators. Installation of this locking device will not cause difficulties even for an inexperienced person. It is much more difficult to choose the right crane. Not many people know that there are several varieties of this device.

Choose a faucet for a heating radiator

Having decided that the stopcock needs to be replaced, the person goes to the store. The range of these devices is quite wide, and unconditionally trust the words of the seller when choosing a product is not worth it. It is necessary to have at least minimal knowledge in the field of plumbing in order to choose the best option.

When choosing valves for radiators, the following points must be taken into account: the locking device must be reliable, but at the same time convenient in operation.

Consider the features of all cranes that are commercially available:

Mechanical valve

This is a classic locking mechanism, made in the form of a "lamb" on the thread. The principle of operation of this device is quite simple: when the "lamb" rotates, the locking mechanism is lowered. When the stem reaches its lowest position, the flow of water into the coolant is interrupted. Of the advantages, it can be noted the simplicity of design and low cost of the product. The disadvantages include the rapid wear of the components. Professional plumbers do not recommend installing such taps in a residential area. They often leak, if the valve is not used for a long time, the stem may jam. In addition, during an accident, it will not be possible to quickly shut off the water supply.

Ball valve

This is the most common locking mechanism to date. It is such products that are installed in most apartments and private houses. Inside the device is a ball mechanism, which is driven by a handle mounted on top. The installed ball has a through hole. When you turn the knob, the hole enters along or across the pipe, blocking or opening the water. The advantages include ease of installation and operation. Among the shortcomings can be noted the fact that being in an intermediate position, the crane often fails.

Mayevsky crane

In essence, it is a threaded plug designed to vent air from a heating radiator. This is a very robust design that is easy to install. In order to close or open such a valve, a rod is provided that rotates with a special key. Please note that in some devices the stem does not have a latch, therefore it is fully inverted. Insert it into place under the pressure of hot water is unrealistic.

Flushing valve

Steel cap, which is installed in radiators. To open this locking mechanism, ordinary pliers are used.

Butterfly valve with thermostat

A rather complicated design with automatic adjustment of the water supply. Simple and reliable, but expensive model.

Crane installation

Installing a shut-off device in heating radiators is a fairly simple procedure. To install absolutely any crane you will need a wrench or adjustable wrench, suitable in size. Any radiator has four holes. On each of them you need to install a cork. To do this, you can purchase a set of plugs for strapping radiators. Three plugs must be pass-through, cranes and a device for venting air are installed on them. The fourth hole is closed with a plug.

The most common radiator strapping scheme is as follows:

1. At the top of the battery, a tap is installed to supply water, on the same side at the bottom put a "return". Opposite the inlet, a crane is installed to discharge air, for example, the Mayevsky system. The bottom hole is closed with a blank plug.
2. Regardless of which faucet you choose, it is inserted into the cork and tightened with a key. Tighten the valve to the end, but without applying excessive force. The fact is that almost all locking devices are made in a brass body. If you pull such a device, you can break the thread or damage the case. For greater tightness, a flax thread is wound between the threads.
3. The other side of the locking mechanism is connected to the heating system. If the pipes in the apartment are metal, then a threaded connection is used. If metal-plastic pipes are laid around the apartment, then an adapter coupling will be needed. After completion of installation, it is necessary to conduct a test supply of water to the system.

Useful Tips

• If all actions are performed correctly, the crane must last at least 20 years. Long life depends on the quality of the valves. The best option is a product made of brass. This material is practically not subject to corrosion and has a presentable appearance. Unfortunately, there are many fakes on the market, they are of low quality and attractive price. Therefore, when choosing valves, pay attention not to appearance and cost, but to product labeling.
• Savings may subsequently result in additional replacement costs. Recommended pressure and temperature parameters should be at least 1.6 MPa and 150 degrees.
  Remember that installing the crane yourself, you automatically assume all responsibility for the quality of installation. If the crane breaks down and the whole house remains without heating, the residents' claims and damages will completely fall on your shoulders. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust this work to professionals.
• It is strictly forbidden to install valves that block the flow of water throughout the riser.
  Before installation, it is recommended to seek advice from the Housing Office, obtain permission and certify the work performed by documents.